“I have never discussed running for president in 2031″—Ribadu refutes El-Rufai’s allegations

National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has rejected allegations by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai that he is orchestrating a campaign to tarnish his reputation ahead of a potential 2031 presidential bid.

El-Rufai, in a Monday interview on national television, claimed Ribadu was collaborating with Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to damage his image.

“This project of destroying Nasir El-Rufai is Nuhu Ribadu’s conception,” El-Rufai alleged, adding that the effort had so far failed.

In a swift response on his official X handle, Ribadu dismissed the claims, stating that he had never discussed any 2031 presidential ambition with anyone. He insisted his sole focus remains the success of President Bola Tinubu’s administration and Nigeria’s progress.

The statement reads in full:

I WON’T JOIN ISSUES WITH NASIR EL-RUFAI

My attention has been drawn to the interview granted by Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the immediate past governor of Kaduna State Monday evening.

If my silence wouldn’t risk being construed as consent, I would have ignored him. I am too preoccupied with my current assignment as to get into a media fight with Nasir El-Rufai or anyone else.

Despite the incessant baiting and attacks I have never spoken ill of Nasir on record anywhere. This is out of respect for our past association and our respective families. I will not start today.

I however urge the public to disregard El-rufai’s statements against me.

For the avoidance of doubt, I want to put it on record that I have never discussed running for president in 2031 with anybody. All my focus and energy are geared completely towards the advancement of Nigeria and the success of the President Tinubu administration.

I therefore ask Nasir El-Rufai to allow me face my onerous national assignment just as I do not bother myself with his own affairs.

Nuhu Ribadu